Teen volunteers: summer starts here

Every summer we are happy to have about 100 teenage volunteers lend a helping hand in the library. Once again as we are getting ready for a great summer of reading clubs and special events ahead at 65 Witherspoon Street, we are counting on the contribution of our volunteers to make it the best summer ever at Princeton Public Library. Now is the time for interested teens (entering seventh grade or above), to apply.

Why volunteer? Besides that it is a big help to the library, it’s also a great way to earn community service hours. We focus on learning good customer skills and being reliable and on time. The experience is a positive post on a budding resume, both for college and job applications. And, let’s not forget that the library is just a cool place to be.

What do volunteers do at the library in the summer?

A big part of our busy year on the third floor at PPL is running the summer reading clubs for children and teens. And, because reading counts, we ask readers to sign up and count their hours read, and report back to earn some great prizes along the way. This busy command post is staffed by our teen volunteers. And volunteers are looked up to by our littlest readers, who love getting attention from our teen volunteers -- big time!

Besides the table time, volunteers can assist the library staff in crafts and the library’s info table outside on Thursdays during the Princeton Community Farmers’ Market; our “Big Tree” library visits; and, with our day-long reading filibuster in the library's lobby, featuring a reading of one book aloud from start-to-finish, by many readers taking turns, as the kick-off the season on June 20. (Stay tuned for the 2012 filibuster choice and your chance to read, this is an all-ages opportunity!)

Teen volunteers can help out with and also come on their own time to lots of other great events all summer. Our theme is “the night” and it's the inspiration for a lot of what will be going on, night and day. There will be Monday NIGHTS at the Movies, as well as the two nights of the Princeton Student Film & Video Festival; a Hunger Games Trivia Contest; Game On at Night, and lots more, including a special volunteer appreciation night, this year with a new twist.

Volunteers are also encouraged, during the moments when it is quiet or not buzzing with activity, to pick up a book and catch up on their own reading. And with our incredible PPL collection within reach, we have that covered for sure!

Interested teens should complete this application so that we can deliver an individual schedule that fits them and their families' lives during the summer months. The application should be followed up by attendance at one of five 45-minute orientation sessions: Tuesday May 15, 4:00 p.m.; Saturday May 19, 12:00 p.m.; Wednesday May 23, 4:00 p.m.; Tuesday May 29, 7:00 p.m.; and Thursday June 7, 4:00 p.m.

All interested volunteers, please apply no later than Friday June 1, 2012.

Note to teens: this summer, we want YOU here at Princeton Public Library!